12 Jun Breweries And Distilleries Near Glasgow

The Elixir Of Life

It’s well known that Scottish folk are fans of a wee swally (drink) at a local watering hole and whisky and beer account for a large proportion of what’s ordered at the bar. You don’t have to stray too far from our hotel to find a well-known brewery or distillery and a host of enthusiasts willing to show you about the place and let you discover just how the stuff is made. While whisky is known as the country’s official national drink and represents hundreds of years of distilling history, beer has seen an explosion in popularity with micro-brewers setting up shop everywhere and some even making a name for themselves throughout Britain.

Check out our guide below on how to get the inside scoop on the production of artisan and globally-known Scottish drinks… just remember not to drive home!

Auchentoshan Distillery

Head just 20 minutes outside of Glasgow city centre and you’ll find the Auchentoshan Distillery, where Scotland’s only triple-distilled single malt whisky is lovingly crafted. Tours complete with tasting run four times a day, seven days a week so you’re spoilt for choice – to get a true flavour of what Auchentoshan is all about, opt for the £20 tour with a tasting of four expressions.

Drygate

One of the younger breweries on the scene, Drygate make it their business to be expert at what they do. Not only do they brew four of their own on site including IPA, lager and ale, they’ll also talk you through guest taps at one of their tasting events. Industrial chic is the order of the day inside the premises and you can even enjoy cutting-edge cuisine whilst looking on to see the brewers at work. Host to a whole load of goings-on besides (including a craft market, the Braw Beard and Moustache Championships and regular DJ nights) there’s plenty to take in while you enjoy a bevvy.

Wellpark Brewery

Drygate’s bigger and slightly more famous neighbour is the home of Scotland’s Favourite Pint – Tennents. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the mass production of beer, with their products shipped to countries throughout the world and the name synonymous with Scottish pub-culture. Tours showcase over 450 years of brewing history and run Monday to Saturday.

Glengoyne Distillery

Whisky and chocolate sounding like the perfect combination right now? Head to the Glengoyne Distillery to indulge in delicious handmade chocolates skillfully matched to the Glengoyne’s 15 and 21 year-old malts. Boasting the slowest stills in Scotland their single malts take their sweet time to mature but boy, is it worth it.

Shilling Brewing Company

This self-styled brewpub is the first to bring a blend of casual eating and beer brewing to a pub-like setting and it’s already a hit with the locals. Enjoy laid-back dining from their pizza menu and a pint fresh from where it’s made – just a couple of metres away. Tours are available as well as brewing masterclasses if you fancy trying your hand yourself.